The Neel-Trimarans brand will probably go down as one of the most innovative in the history of yacht building. Despite initial doubts, the idea of founder and owner Eric Bruneel to combine the performance potential of trimarans with the luxurious accommodation offered by catamarans has worked very well. For ten years, the shipyard based in La Rochelle has been constantly improving and expanding the exclusive concept, with up to four types between 45 and 65 feet. And now the first generational change is on the cards. The Neel 45 (project presentation in YACHT 9/2013), which attracted a lot of attention at the beginning, has had its day and will be replaced by the slightly smaller and significantly less wide Neel 43. The shipyard has recently published initial plans and views. According to the plan, the new ship should be afloat and sailing by April 2021.
Compared to the larger Neel 47, which was recently presented in a test (YACHT 8/2020), the side hulls of the Neel 43 are no longer or only partially habitable. In the new, smaller trimaran, the deckhouse has therefore been moved further outwards to create more usable space in the central living area. The Neel 43 will be fitted with a spacious, separate owner's cabin at saloon level. Another double berth for guests or children is only partially separated from the saloon. The seating area in the saloon can also be converted into a comfortable double bed with a lowerable table. Together with additional berths in the foredeck of the centre hull and in the side hulls, the Neel 43 could ultimately provide up to ten berths. However, there is only one toilet room.
The design of the Neel 43 is once again by Marc Lombard. The aggressive hull shapes with the negative wave piercer-style stem are visually striking. Stub keels on the side hulls prevent drift and ensure good height upwind. The high, sporty sail plan with a fully battened mainsail and overlapping genoa is responsible for the high performance potential. The helm position is raised to the side and can be reached from the side deck or directly from the outside cockpit.
All large moulded parts for the Neel 43 are produced as GRP sandwich constructions using the vacuum infusion process. A highly compressed foam core is used as the intermediate material and the structures are laminated with osmosis-resistant vinyl ester resin. The trimaran experts in La Rochelle have already received five orders for the smallest model in the range directly from the first plans. The prices are also already known: the exciting touring trimaran will cost 356,760 euros for the market launch in the basic version ex shipyard.
The predecessor model Neel 45 tested by YACHT-TV
